National Pet Wellness Month

So October is National Pet Wellness Month, and we at Paws, Purrs & Exotics Animal Hospital would like to talk to you about three very important issues you should be addressing with your veterinarian during this time: Twice-a-year wellness exams, disease prevention, and pet health insurance.

Twice Yearly Exams- Pets age seven times faster than people do, and because of this rapid growing process, health problems can occur in a short amount of time.  Twice yearly exams will allow your veterinarian to diagnose, treat, and prevent health problems before they become serious.  They are also a great opportunity for you to ask the veterinary team questions about important topics such as pet behavior, nutrition, and parasite control, on a regular basis.

Disease Prevention- Just like their human counterparts, there are many diseases that pets can acquire, some of these which can be passed on to you! This year, there has been much discussion about the swine flu.  There is not much evidence to support swine flu being found in domestic animals, but we do know of another strain of influenza being found in canines, H3N8. There is a canine influenza vaccine available. Having an open dialogue with your veterinarian about what can be done to help protect your pet against certain disease, is crucial to their well being.

Pet Health Insurance- Pet health insurance is on the rise, but many pet owners have very little information on how it works.  Most insurance plans will provide coverage for sudden illness or injury as well as for preventive care; however, they may not cover pre-existing conditions. So the key is to get health coverage when your pet is young and healthy.  Paws, Purrs & Exotics Animal Hospital accepts most health insurance plans, but we have a special partnership with Pets Best Insurance.  Please contact us at (703) 549-7297 for more information.

So be sure to schedule your pets’ six-month exam today, and keep them happy and healthy for many years to come!   

*If you would like more information about National Pet Wellness Month, please visit www.npwm.com.

 **Paws, Purrs & Exotics Animal Hospital is located at 133 South Peyton Street, in the heart of Old Town Alexandria.  We provide medical services for cats, dogs, small mammals, and exotics.  Please visit our website at www.pawspurrsandexotics.com for more information about what we can offer you and your pet.